Honoring The First Lady of Chiropractic

Women’s History Month celebrates women’s contributions to history, culture, and society. Since the 1980s, this annual observance has provided an opportunity to discover admirable women whose achievements have shaped our world.

A Force For Natural Medicine

Among these remarkable women stands Mabel Palmer, often called the “First Lady of Chiropractic.” Her profound influence on chiropractic began when she graduated from the Palmer School of Chiropractic in Iowa in 1905. Her thirst for knowledge led her to Chicago, where she pursued advanced studies in anatomy and dissection.

In 1918, she authored “Anatomy”, the first anatomy textbook specifically written for chiropractic students. This groundbreaking work established her as an authority in the field and provided a foundation for chiropractic education that would benefit generations of practitioners.

Four Decades of Teaching Excellence

Following her publication, Palmer returned to the Palmer School of Chiropractic. There, she taught anatomy for an impressive four decades, shaping the minds of countless professionals. Her influence extended beyond the classroom when she founded Sigma Phi Chi, the world’s first chiropractic sorority, creating a supportive community for women entering the profession.

A True Renaissance Woman

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Palmer was a renaissance woman with diverse interests. An enthusiastic traveler and writer, she collected artifacts from around the world throughout her lifetime. These treasures eventually filled her Iowa home, where she lived with her husband and son.

A Champion for Gender Equality

Palmer’s leadership extended beyond chiropractic. She was elected international president of Quota Club, an organization that promoted gender equality and empowered women. Her influence inspired both female and male chiropractors across the United States and internationally.

Although she passed away in 1949, her legacy continues. In 2006, she was posthumously named a Distinguished Fellow in the Palmer Academy of Chiropractic, recognizing her monumental contributions to the profession.